Piping for concrete pump systems

Abstract

A section of piping for a concrete pump delivery system which has improved abrasion resistance and ease of cleaning is shown. The piping has a tubular metal body with an exposed exterior surface and a generally cylindrical internal surface. The internal surface of the tubular metal body is plated with a deposit of chromium to give the section of piping a hard chromium case which resists abrasion. The deposit of chromium is applied by exposing the internal surface of the tubular metal body to an aqueous electrolyte solution at a current density and at a plating temperature sufficient to form a chromium deposit of desired thickness on the internal surface.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Cross Reference To Related Applications [0002] The present application is related to the copending application of Steven L. Wilmeth, Robert B. [0003] Anderson and John R. Pechan entitled “Piping For Abrasive Slurry Transport Systems”, filed concurrently herewith. [0004] 2. Field of the Invention [0005] The present invention relates generally to piping for transporting abrasive materials such as piping for concrete pump systems and to a chrome plating process for depositing a chromium deposit of desired thickness on the internal diameter of such piping. [0006] 3. Description of the Prior Art [0007] A variety of applications exist in industry for pumping abrasive materials. One such application is for pumping concrete in the various construction industries. High-grade concrete is typically pumped from the truck mixer to its final location. Delivery of this type maintains a uniform distribution of the concrete aggregate and sometimes lowers labor c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides piping for pumping concrete and other abrasive materials that has improved abrasion resistance, longer life, easier cleaning after use, and a thinner wall which is lighter in weight than the piping of the prior art. The section of piping has a hard chromium case which resists abrasion, achieved by plating the internal surface of the tubular metal body with chromium using an electrolyte solution containing water, chromic acid, a sulfate component, and optionally an alkyl sulphonic acid and an anion of molybdenum. The chrome plated internal surface is harder and smoother than the prior art, providing a more wear resistant surface which is much easier to clean after pumping operations.

Problems solved by technology

Concrete pumping is also a very harsh environment.

The system operates in an environment including airborne foreign matter and other contaminants in addition to the concrete itself which is a very abrasive and damaging material.

However, there are limits upon the types of metals which can ultimately be used.

For example, because of the high pressures encountered, concrete pumping requires a pipe having a very high tensile strength to operate satisfactorily over long periods of time.

In the case of fixed piping installations, weight impacts the amount of piping which can be hauled to a job site.

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